Alabama DHR recommends locking EBT cards to prevent out-of-state fraud
HUNTSIVLLE, Ala. (WHNT) — The Alabama Department of Human Resources is recommending that all EBT cardholders utilize the new Lock/Unlock feature on the ConnectEBT app and website, especially the 'Lock Card Everywhere' option which will help block out of state fraud.
From May 2023 to December 20, 2024, Alabama DHR replaced $15.9 million of SNAP benefits due to EBT fraud. From October to December 20, 2024, over 26,000 reimbursements were approved for $10.5 million.
The Department believes that 100% of the funds were stolen from outside of the state.
Data shows that around $1.8 million in Alabama EBT expenditures happened in the state of New York and around $2.2 million was spent in Pennsylvania. The Department of Human Resources believe most, if not all, of this is fraud.
'The very best thing our SNAP clients can do is lock their card when they aren't using it,' said Alabama DHR Commissioner Nancy Buckner. 'With the funds being stolen by utilizing out of state EBT terminals, we believe using our newest feature on ConnectEBT and locking the EBT card will truly combat this type of fraud.'
Clients can choose from two options when locking their card: 'Lock Card Everywhere' or 'Lock Card'. 'Lock Card Everywhere' completely locks cards to ALL purchases anywhere. The 'Lock Card' option will lock cards from purchases outside of Alabama, but does allow online purchases.
DHR strongly recommends the 'Lock Card Everywhere' option at all times when the card is not in use.
EBT cardholders may also sign up for alerts through the ConnectEBT app and website. These alerts include account activity alerts through the app, text, and/or email.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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